Recognizing Excellence: The story being Kenya's top Honors

Nairobi, 

Friday, 13 December, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Kenya’s national honors system is a prestigious way to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the country. 

Orders, decorations, and medals of Kenya are awarded by the President of Kenya in recognition of outstanding or distinguished services rendered to the nation in various capacities and responsibilities fostering a culture of appreciation for public service, heroism, and outstanding achievement. 

Awards are made by the president upon the advice of a National Honours and Awards Committee in the president's office. 

Individuals are nominated for awards by district committees, government ministries, religious organisations, non-governmental organisations, individuals and others.

The system of national awards in Kenya is guided by the National Honours Act, 2013, which outlines how these decorations are established, awarded, and ranked. 

The President of Kenya, as the Head of State who is the ultimate authority for conferring these honors usually during national celebrations such as Jamhuri Day (December 12th) and Madaraka Day (June 1st).

Among these notable titles are Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS), Elder of the Golden Heart (EGH), and Head of State Commendation (HSC) and Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart (M.G.H.).

1.The Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH)

The Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) is the highest honour awarded by the Kenyan government.  

The President of Kenya Currently President William Ruto, holds the position of Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya. 

As as of 2009, CGH has been bestowed on 198 people since Kenyan independence. Recipients of this award include Yoweri Museveni the President of Uganda, Aga Khan IV, Reimond Kipkesio and Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community.

2.Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H)

The Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.) is the second highest honour awarded by the republic of Kenyan government.

EGH is a title reserved for distinguished service in high-ranking roles or monumental achievements in Kenya. This honor is often conferred upon senior politicians, philanthropists, and prominent public figures.

Some Achievements Leading to EGH include, Exceptional leadership in national governance, Noteworthy achievements in areas like education, healthcare, and community development and Global recognition for advancing Kenya’s reputation on the international stage.

Former presidents Mwai Kibaki was an EGH holder for his landmark achievements in Kenya's economic growth during his tenure. 

On 20 April 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta awarded the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart to His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, at the inauguration of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah in Nairobi.

On 20 October 2019, President Kenyatta awarded the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya to Eliud Kipchoge for running a sub two-hour marathon in Vienna, Austria.

3.Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS)

This title is one of the highest civilian awards in Kenya. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service in public office, leadership, or contribution to the country’s development. The “Burning Spear” symbolizes strength, resilience, and dedication to duty.

Achievements Leading to CBS include, Leadership in government or public administration, Contributions to Kenya's economic growth, policy development, or social reforms and Consistent and remarkable service in diplomacy or national defense.

Notable recipients of CBS include former Chief Justice David Maraga and the Late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla.

4.Order of the Grand Warrior The Order of the Grand Warrior (O.G.W)

Order of the Grand Warrior The Order of the Grand Warrior (O.G.W) is an award presented to individuals in recognition of an outstanding service rendered to the country in different responsibilities and capacities. 

More importantly, it is an award presented to those who put their lives at risk to save their fellow countrymen. 

The recipients of the O.G.W are those who leave a lasting image on their fellow countrymen by putting their country first before their personal feelings and interests. 

Among the notable recipients of this award include Former Senate Speaker, Hon. David Ekwee Ethuro, former speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Justin Bedan Muturi,Nairobi Women Rep Esther Passaris, former leader of the majority party in the Senate, and currently 

The Deputy President Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, and the Cabinet Secretary for Environment Hon. Adan Duale.

Another notable figure to receive this award is Salah Farah, a Kenyan Muslim who shielded Christians during an Al-Shabaab ambush in Mandera town in Kenya.

Then Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, said Farah "...is a costly reminder that we all have a role to protecting our freedoms."

Another notable recipient is the chief principal of Moi High School Kabarak, Mrs Elisheba Cheruiyot

5.Head of State Commendation (HSC)

The HSC award celebrates individuals whose contributions, though not necessarily at the top echelons of government or leadership, have made a significant positive impact on society. 

This honor is given to ordinary citizens, professionals, and even young achievers for their acts of heroism or innovation.

Achievements Leading to HSC include, Acts of bravery or selflessness, such as saving lives during emergencies. Pioneering innovations that benefit society or boost the economy and outstanding performance in sports, arts, and sciences.

Beyond the prestige, these awards inspire citizens to pursue excellence and contribute to nation-building. 

They reflect Kenya’s diverse talent and encourage a collective effort to achieve national goals. However, some critics argue that the process could be more transparent, with more grassroots representation and recognition of unsung heroes.